Editor’s Note: Below are statements from Mattapoisett Select Board candidates Jordan Collyer and Donald LaMarr. The Town of Mattapoisett will hold its Election on Tuesday, May 17, at Old Hammondtown School.
Jordan Collyer – Mattapoisett Select Board
First and foremost, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the many citizens of Mattapoisett for their continued years of support. Also, I would like to thank the employees of Mattapoisett. Without you, we would not operate as smoothly as we have. Despite turnover in many positions, the team that is on board continues to exceed expectations in many areas. Throughout my years in office, we have had many struggles and equally as many successes. Through trying financial times to the loss of key teammates, the town has come out stronger and well positioned to weather most any storm. To this day, Mattapoisett continues to have an excellent bond rating and has become a role model for other towns with our sound fiscal policies and actions. It took many years to achieve and maintain this status. If re-elected, it is my plan to continue our policy of not taxing to the full extent of 2.5 percent, but rather use only what is needed to maintain and judiciously improve services. As we all know, housing prices have been staggering and will continue to rise. Truthfully, this is not within any of our control; however, we do have the ability to work with landowners, developers and the Commonwealth to encourage opportunities for those that wish to remain in town. There is no “silver bullet,” but we can surely continue our efforts to seek options and rally behind those that have made this town great for so many years. Continued conversations around sustainable education costs, adequate services for all residents, and programs that can benefit the generations in this town will be critical to success. Keeping the town affordable for all is a goal I believe all of us would like to see long term. I respectfully ask you for your support and vote on May 17th. I continue to love what I do for the town and will not back down from the challenges and difficult conversations that are necessary. It is my intent to serve you all for another three years with the same dedication you have come to expect.
Donald LaMarr – Mattapoisett Select Board
I have lived in Mattapoisett for over 25 years, and I believe it is now time for a change on the Select Board. When my mom died of Alzheimer’s disease several years ago, it devastated me. It made me realize how important it is to help seniors and give back to this town I am proud to live in. I want the seniors to feel comfortable in their own homes, and not have to go to an assisted living facility or a nursing home if they don’t have to. I believe they should spend their golden years in their own home, have a support system that includes family and friends, and to make use of the necessary home services that are available. While working in the Bristol County Sheriff’s office, I worked in Homeland Security. But I also spent time speaking at senior centers, warning seniors about those that prey on the elderly and to beware of scams. I do not like seniors being taken advantage of. I promise you that, if I am elected, I will do my very best and work hard for all of the residents of Mattapoisett to make sure everyone is treated fairly. I will work to make sure the town budget is spent wisely, that teachers are recognized for all of the hard work they do, and to work to make the town more affordable for young couples who want to live here. I believe in an open line of communication and a face-to-face, open-door policy. I am willing to hear every word and act on your request with a swift and honest decision. Since retiring two years ago, I have returned to my love of building and collecting cars. It is my passion. But my passion is also believing that I can make a different for the residents of Mattapoisett. A new face and fresh ideas. Please vote for me on May 17.